Introduction

The DS 3 is by far the young French premium brand’s best-selling car in the UK, partly because it’s the cheapest and partly because it’s the best-resolved product of the current trio. It’s a Mini-rivalling three-door supermini focused on style with a convertible option and even special editions that come with an expensive designer chronograph watch in one case, and a Givenchy make-up kit in another.

Did you know? There are 78 body and roof colour combinations for the hatchback, and four roof designs for the Cabrio

Verdict | Design | Interior | Technology | Performance | Safety | Specs | Running Costs | Pricing

Verdict: ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ (7.1/10)

The DS 3 is good to look at, sharp enough to drive, loaded with the technology fashion-conscious people really want, and comes fitted with brilliant engines used in many other places across DS’s parent PSA group. The interior quality is a let-down in some areas, and electric reliability is questionable, but the customisation potential inside and out will, for most buyers, make up for any shortfalls.